Formal Dresses
Windsor's formal dresses are redefining elegance for 2026. Think illusion panels that sculpt and contour, printed mesh gowns with bold florals or swirls, and slinky jersey knits that drape like liquid luxe. Daring cutouts bring a sleek edge to eveningwear, while cascading ruffles add movement and modern drama. These on-trend gowns prove that formal doesn’t have to mean predictable—they’re made for weddings, galas, and every post-worthy moment in between. Discover styles that are elevated, camera-ready, and designed to make you feel incredible and look unforgettable.
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STYLE SPOTLIGHT
Formal Dresses That Make Every Moment Feel Major
Windsor’s formal dresses are designed for those special occasions when your look has to be flawless. From sweeping formal gowns to sleek short silhouettes, this collection delivers drama, polish, and trend-right details that set the tone for any event. Think structured sheer corset bodices, dainty adjustable straps, adjustable lace-up backs, and glam high slits that blend comfort with high-impact style.
If you’re planning a gala, wedding, or milestone party, Windsor offers a range of formal party dresses in both fitted and flowy silhouettes to match your vibe. Go for a strapless satin gown with a sweetheart neckline for timeless elegance, or choose an asymmetrical hemline or bow-back detail for a fresh twist that feels modern and fun.
No matter where the night takes you, Windsor’s formal dresses give you options that feel special, stylish, and photo-ready. Shop Windsor’s formal dresses near you, online, in-app, or at one of 350+ stores nationwide, and find the look that will make your night unforgettable.
Tips for Choosing the Best Formal Dress for Your Body Type
- Hourglass: Slay those curves with a fitted corset bodice and flowing skirt.
- Pear‑Shaped: Balance out your look with a structured top and full skirt.
- Rectangle: Create curves with a cinched waist and flared hem.
- Apple‑Shaped: Draw eyes upward with a V‑neckline and empire waist.
For more styling inspo, hit up our blog guides like “The Ultimate Gala Dresses Guide” or “Sexy Formal Dresses – Create an Eye‑Catching Look” and get ready to own every moment.
What’s the Difference Between a Formal and a Semi-Formal Dress?
Formal and semi-formal dresses differ based on event dress codes and styling. Formal attire, often called black-tie, features glamorous floor-length gowns with luxe details like rhinestones, lace, and beading—perfect for galas, weddings, and proms. Popular silhouettes include mermaid, ball gown, and A-line styles.
Semi-formal dresses offer more variety in length and design, making them ideal for homecoming, weddings, and cocktail parties. These styles range from midi to short lengths.
The venue and occasion can also guide your choice—an upscale wedding may call for a floor-length gown, while an outdoor event might be perfect for a sleek midi dress with a stylish neckline.
Are Formal Dresses Always Long?
Not always! While long gowns are classic for formal events, modern formal attire includes various lengths and styles. Windsor’s collection of women’s formalwear features short, midi, and long dresses. Explore dramatic mermaid and column silhouettes for timeless elegance, or opt for trendy alternatives like high-low hemlines and two-piece designs for a fresh take on formal fashion.
Find your perfect formal dress at Windsor any time of year, available online, in-app, and in over 350 stores across the U.S. and Canada. Shop now for trend-driven styles that make you shine and every event unforgettable!
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Zaria Halter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Bold, sculpted, and made for the spotlight — the Zaria formal gown turns every entrance into a slow-motion moment. Crafted in smooth stretch knit with a dramatic plunging halter neckline framed by metallic hardware, this gown cinches with soft ruching and finishes in a sleek mermaid silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit-lined fabric, moderate stretch
- Plunge halter neckline, hardware insert, tie closure
- Ruched mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie galas, upscale soirees, holiday celebrations, formal dinners, birthday events, red-carpet occasions, elegant date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000739
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kensie Satin Cowl Neck Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic with a modern chicness, the Kensie formal gown drapes the body in satin jacquard that catches the light with every step. The soft cowl neckline and high side slit with button accents create an effortlessly elegant silhouette that feels made for your most unforgettable moments.
Fit & Features
- Smooth satin jacquard fabric with subtle floral texture
- Draped cowl neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High side slit with button accents
- Curve-hugging, floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black-tie galas, destination ceremonies, formal celebrations, holiday soirees, winter balls, red-carpet occasions, upscale birthday dinners, engagement parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000561
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Dalia Floral Velvet Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Soft shimmer meets sculpted romance in the Dalia formal dress. Designed in floral metallic glitter velvet, this gown drapes beautifully at the cowl neckline and stuns from behind with an open crisscross back. The mermaid silhouette glides effortlessly, giving every step that dreamy, red-carpet sweep.
Fit & Features
- Floral metallic glitter velvet fabric, sewn-in lining
- Cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Criss-cross open back, lower ruched seam
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal weddings, black-tie galas, holiday parties, engagement dinners, milestone celebrations, charity balls, evening receptions, birthday events, NYE soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000741
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ariyah Satin Halter Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to glide with every step, the Ariyah satin mermaid dress delivers sleek drama with a polished finish. A halter neckline and sculpted plunge bodice create a confident silhouette that feels modern, chic, and ready for elevated occasions.
Fit & Features
- Satin knit fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
- Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bust
- Halter strap with bar closure
- Corset-inspired front seam design
- Open back with lower strap and bar closure, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, wedding guests, black-tie parties, galas, dressed-up dinners, formal birthday celebrations, and chic soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000740
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: YELLOW, BROWN
Available Size: S, L, XS, M, XL
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Janet Velvet Strapless Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
A study in sleek sophistication, the Janet dress glides in velvet with a sculpted strapless neckline accented by modern hardware that instantly elevates the look. The cutout back and mermaid floor-length hem add fluid movement and refined drama, creating a moment that feels polished, alluring, and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric with smooth sculpting stretch
- Strapless neckline with rhinestone-encrusted hardware detail
- Padded bra cups
- Cutout back with flattering ruching, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, holiday parties, black tie galas, charity events, elegant celebrations, date nights, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, nights at the theatre
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000744
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Elyse Glitter Knit Off-The-Shoulder Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Crafted in shimmering glitter knit, the Elyse off-the-shoulder mermaid dress was made for that slow-motion entrance moment. With chic draping and a sleek front slit, it brings elevated glamour to every black-tie night on your calendar.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric with moderate stretch
- Off-the-shoulder surplice neckline
- Ruched bodice enhances shape
- Faux wrap-front design, high slit for added movement
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie party, gala, winter formal, red-carpet event, fancy dinner, and a chic soiree.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000743
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Mackinley Rhinestone Lace-Up Column Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for moments that deserve a little drama, the Mackinley rhinestone column dress delivers sleek glamour with a refined edge. The sweetheart halter neckline and lace-up back create a striking balance of structure and allure.
Fit & Features
- Rhinestone embellished mesh with a smooth, sculpting feel
- Sweetheart halter neckline with supportive bust underwire shaping
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Column silhouette that skims the body
- Lace up back placket with slit for movement
- Long-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black tie weddings, galas, formal celebrations, red-carpet occasions, award ceremonies, special date nights, anniversaries, honeymoons, destination resort celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000745
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kayla Satin Open Back Chiffon Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Graceful with a hint of allure, the Kayla satin gown is made for moments that feel effortlessly elevated. The satin V-neckline, open tie-back design, and chiffon sheer floor-length hem create fluid movement and a silhouette that feels refined yet unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Stretch smooth satin-lined fabric through bodice
- V-neckline, padded bra cups for support
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back with tie and a lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Fitted silhouette that skims the body with ease
- Chiffon sheer floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie galas, elegant destination celebrations, formal garden receptions, outdoor estate events, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, upscale birthday events, anniversaries, formal dances, fashion-forward events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000748
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Mael Floral Rhinestone Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to mesmerize from every angle, the Mael gown drapes the body in a dreamy floral print that feels both romantic and striking. The rhinestone-kissed halter V-neckline and sultry open back create a fluid, sculpted silhouette that moves with unforgettable elegance.
Fit & Features
- Mesh-lined fabric with floral print and rhinestone embellishment
- Halter V-neckline, spaghetti strap tie back closure, padded bra cups
- Open back with flattering ruched detailing
- Mermaid silhouette with floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, destination vacations, resort dinners, upscale date nights, engagement parties, art museum soiree, birthday celebrations, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000750
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $84.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jacie Floral Ruffle Column Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic movement meets modern elegance in the Jacie floral ruffle column dress designed for unforgettable entrances. Soft layers of ruffles cascade along the high side slit, creating fluid motion with every step, while the strapless neckline keeps the look sleek and refined. It’s the kind of dress that feels effortless yet completely event-ready.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh -lined fabric
- Strapless neckline
- Ruffled column silhouette
- High side slit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, garden parties, fancy brunches, spring galas, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, birthday dinners, cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000755
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: YELLOW
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Kiana Floral Mesh Halter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Bold florals and a sculpted silhouette make the Kiana formal dress an unforgettable moment. Designed in soft mesh with oversized blooms, this halter gown dips into a deep neckline and sweeps into an open back that feels effortless and alluring. The mermaid skirt glides with every step—romantic, dramatic, and made for the spotlight.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, airy mesh-lined stretch fabric
- Plunge halter neckline with a padded bust
- Open back design
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, winery celebrations, formal dinners, engagement parties, date nights, anniversaries
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000746
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Casey Satin Low Back Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Understated yet undeniably striking, the Casey dress is made for evenings that call for effortless polish. Crafted in satin, this mermaid floor-length silhouette features a clean V-neckline, delicate spaghetti straps, a low back, and a high side slit that brings fluid movement and quiet drama.
Fit & Features
- Stretch lined satin fabric with a smooth, fluid drape
- V-neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps
- Low back detail
- Mermaid silhouette
- High side slit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal weddings, black tie galas, upscale celebration dinners, milestone birthdays, elegant resort receptions, formal dances, winter balls, rehearsal dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001007
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY-2
Available Size: S, M, L, XL
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Gaia Strapless A-Line Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly striking, the Gaia plisse mesh A-line gown moves with fluid elegance while catching the light in all the right places. A rhinestone embellished insert frames the keyhole cutout, while the high front slit adds a hint of drama with every step.
Fit & Features
- Plisse mesh-lined fabric with soft pleated texture
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Rhinestone embellished insert with keyhole cutout
- A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- High front slit
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, galas, balls, big birthday events, fashion-forward events, black tie occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000769
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE, NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Danielle Satin Abstract Column Formal Dress
Special Occasion
An effortless showstopper designed for your most RSVP-worthy moments, the Danielle abstract satin column gown moves with a fluid, light-catching drape. The open lace-up back adds a striking finish, balancing soft elegance with a hint of allure.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, abstract print, bust lining
- Cowl halter neckline
- Open lace-up back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Column floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, cocktail parties, black tie galas, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, birthday dinners, vacations, resort destinations, anniversaries
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000773
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: L, XL
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Adelyn Glitter Knit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The Adelyn mermaid dress arrives with a gorgeous shimmer that catches the light from every angle, designed for entrances that draw the room in without trying. The glitter knit fabric skims the body with a draped cowl neckline and a sculpted mermaid silhouette, bringing that glamorous drama.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric with moderate stretch
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper with hook-and-eye closure
- Ruched bodice
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie parties, galas, red-carpet events, formal birthday celebrations, and chic soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000777
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $84.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Massie Leopard Chiffon A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for entrances that linger long after you’ve passed, the Massie chiffon leopard gown moves with an effortless, fluid grace. Featuring a soft cowl neckline, low back, and high front wrap slit, the A-line floor length silhouette feels both striking and refined.
Fit & Features
- Leopard print, chiffon fabric with sewn-in woven lining
- Cowl neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps
- Fitted bodice with smooth waist seam
- Open back with adjustable tie closure, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit for ease of movement
- A-line skirt with floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, evening galas, formal receptions, destination resort celebrations, dressy dinners, elevated date nights, fashion-forward cocktail parties, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, honeymoons, anniversaries, red-carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000780
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS
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Marielle Floral A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Marielle A-line gown brings a soft, sweeping romance to every step. Designed with a structured sweetheart neckline, flowing skirt, and lace-up back detail, it’s the kind of piece that feels equal parts polished and effortlessly dreamy.
Fit & Features
- Floral pattern, organza-lined fabric
- Sweetheart neckline, spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back
- Voluminous A-line silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, garden parties, black tie galas, formal milestone celebrations, fancy birthday events, anniversaries, summer soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000765
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Mellie Satin Lace Up Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek and sculpted with just the right amount of drama, the Mellie satin mermaid gown is made for entrances that linger. The high front slit and lace-up back add a striking edge to its fluid silhouette, giving you a polished allure.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, knit lining
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Structured corset-inspired bodice, flexible boning
- High front slit
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie occasions, balls, galas, rehearsal dinners, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000775
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK, HUNTER
Available Size: XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Addilyn Sequin Floral Lace Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The Addilyn dress delivers pure spotlight drama in a sequin floral lace mermaid silhouette that glimmers from every angle. The curve-hugging fit, barely-there straps, and low open back feel effortlessly glamorous—perfect for prom, galas, and any formal affair where stunning is the only option.
Fit & Features
- Floral lace fabric with sequin embroidery
- Full-length knit lining, moderate stretch
- Sleeveless scoop neckline, padded bust, underbust seam
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Low open back design, zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-sweeping mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, black-tie parties, red-carpet events, chic soirees, and formal affairs.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000762
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Marlyne Halter Open Back Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortless and ethereal, the Marlyne formal dress moves like a warm breeze. Designed in airy organza fabric with a halter neckline and chic O-ring accent, its free-flowing A-line silhouette and open back create an easy elegance that’s perfect for sunset dinners or coastal soirées.
Fit & Features
- Lightweight organza shimmer woven fabric, woven lining
- Halter neckline with hoop insert, tie straps
- Open back design
- Hidden side pockets
- Flowy A-line silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, garden ceremonies, sunset dinner parties, resort vacations, cocktail events, bridal showers, wedding showers, rehearsal dinners, birthday celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000751
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alayna Satin V-Neck Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Elegantly effortless, the Alayna drapes in satin with a refined V-neckline that sets the tone for a beautifully fluid moment. The open strappy back and mermaid floor-length silhouette bring soft drama and movement, creating a look designed for polished, unforgettable celebrations.
Fit & Features
- Satin fabric with smooth, fluid drape
- V-neckline with slim adjustable straps
- Open strappy back with sleek cowl drape
- Mermaid floor length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, formal holiday soirees, black tie galas, anniversaries, luxe date nights, dressy birthday events, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, winter formals, red-carpet nights, opera or theatre nights, destination celebrations, resort dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000779
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, M, L
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Alyce Side Lace Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for evenings that call for quiet allure, the Alyce knit mermaid dress skims the body with fluid ease and refined detail. A soft cowl neckline meets side lace inserts and a low back, creating a look that feels polished yet undeniably striking.
Fit & Features
- Silky knit fabric with fluid drape, stretch, and lining
- Cowl neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps
- Side lace inserts that contour the waist
- Low back with clean, minimal finish, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette with floor-length hem
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie galas, upscale benefit dinner, elegant city soirees, milestone celebrations, anniversary dinner, holiday party, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, fancy date nights, red-carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000795
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BURGUNDY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Bailee Velvet Pattern Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Bailee dress is made for moments that feel effortlessly elevated, combining romantic damask floral velvet burnout with a sleek, sculpted silhouette. A flattering V-neck, lace up back, and high front slit bring just the right balance of softness and drama to this refined mermaid gown.
Fit & Features
- Velvet burnout damask pattern, mesh lined fabric
- V-neckline, padded bra cups, spaghetti straps
- Defined waist with contouring seam placement
- Floor-length mermaid skirt with front slit
- Open back with lace-up detail, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Runs true to size.
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie galas, winter formals, holiday soirees, upscale receptions, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, big birthday events, anniversaries, honeymoons, destination resorts
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000803
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alita Metallic Floral Rhinestone Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Crafted for nights that call for luminous elegance, this floral slinky, foil metallic gown catches the light with every step. The cowl neckline and rhinestone pattern offer a soft, sculpted shimmer, while the mermaid floor-length silhouette creates a fluid, statuesque finish meant to captivate.
Fit & Features
- Metallic floral-foil slinky knit-lined fabric with subtle rhinestones
- Cowl neckline with slim adjustable spaghetti straps
- Smooth fitted bodice with defined waist seam
- Curve-skimming mermaid silhouette with floor-length hem
- Low scoop back detail
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Galas, holiday parties, weddings, black tie celebrations, upscale evening soirees, anniversary dinners, milestone celebrations, birthdays, red-carpet occasions, elevated cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000799
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: GOLD
Available Size: S, L